Frequently Asked Questions –

Q. Which Mini’s can you comply?

A. At present our evidence is for the SPI, Japanese spec, Rover Mini from 1997 – 2000. We will be working on the earlier year models in the near future.

Q. Are there any Mini’s that can't be complied?

A. All non SRS equipped cars built in 1996 are not eligible.  These are from VIN ending 122845 to 134454

Q. Why is this so?

A. ADR69 (airbag rule) was introduced for new models on January 1^st 1996 and the Mini was not equipped with SRS until the MY97 model in September 1996.  The 1st MY97 car is VIN ending 134455

Q. How much is it to comply a Rover Mini?

Q. How long does the compliance process take?

A. We allow approx 5 working days from start to finish. There is an additional period of around 7 working days for DOTARS to review the documents and issue approval for the plate. This happens for EVERY car and we have NO CONTROL over this.

Q. Can I do the compliance myself?

A. No. As per the RAWS legislation all compliance work will be undertaken in our premises by our DOTARS approved personnel.

Q. Do they come registered?

Q. Can you tell me when my injected Mini was built?

A. Yes, we hold the production dates for all Rover Mini from 1995 onwards.

Q. What if the car is damaged or has a damaged, repaired history?

A. The legislation in part reads –

(1) A vehicle inspection signatory must conduct an initial inspection of each used imported vehicle.
(2) When conducting an initial inspection, the vehicle inspection signatory must:
(a) inspect the vehicle for any crash damage, damage repair or corrosion that may affect its structural integrity; and
(b) note any damage, repair or corrosion in an inspection report.
(3) The vehicle inspection signatory must have regard to the following minimum criteria in determining if crash damage or corrosion is likely to affect the structural integrity of a vehicle:
(a) underbody damage evidenced by crushed floor-pan stiffening members, split seam welds or torn metal;
(b) damage to rocker panels (or outer sill) evidenced by dents with a depth of more than 25 mm, creasing, or distortion of the sill weld;
(c) distortion to longitudinal rails affecting the front and rear crush zones;
(d) collision damage to steering or suspension components;
(e) damage to the vehicle’s outer body panels, which affects the integrity of any seams or joints;
(f) corrosion evidenced by perforation, flaking or pitting of the metal;
(g) cracks, repairs, modifications, rust, deterioration or distortion of any structural component of the vehicle.

As you can see the rules are very specific and because of the Mini’s construction means in the event of a previous accident, even a minor one, it may be outside what is allowed. Additionally, if for example cutting to fit speakers or the like has modified the rear parcel shelf, this is also outside what is allowed.

Q. What happens if my car fails the initial inspection?

A. As per the legislation, DOTARS is informed and the vehicle must be destroyed. Prior to leaving the RAW the following components are removed from the car – all SRS equipment, all seatbelts, catalytic converter, the section of bodywork containing the original VIN and the chassis plate.

Q. What if my car has aftermarket parts such as exhaust or suspension fitted when it arrives at the RAW?

A. As the approval is on a car by car basis (not blanket approval as under LVCS), upon arrival the individual car will need to be assessed and items affecting ADR compliance will be compared to our evidence. If there is ANY item fitted that is outside this evidence then we need to change it or complete testing of that individual item. If the item in question requires additional testing then the cost of this test or tests will be borne by the vehicle owner, not the RAW.

Q. What happens to the aftermarket or non complying parts that are removed?

A. As per the legislation they are destroyed.

Q. Do you have Mini’s available in stock?

A. The majority of cars now will be cars that the customer source themselves which we comply on their behalf. There will be occasions when we make cars available however this will be in the minority. If they can source their own car we can look after everything from the overseas transport and deregistration, shipping, domestic transport, compliance and even rego (in NSW). 

FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT SOURCING YOUR OWN CAR FROM JAPAN SEE HERE